This statewide program recognizes tourism businesses committed to reducing their environmental impact. The program, developed through a partnership of the Maryland Office of Tourism, the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Maryland Tourism Council in support of the Governor O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative, encourages environmentally-friendly practices in all aspects of the state’s tourism industry and promotes Maryland as a green destination for the eco-minded traveler.

Our mission at the National Aquarium is to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures, and that starts right here in our buildings, on our grounds and throughout our company culture. Conservation is in everything we do. Our Internal Conservation Committee (ICC) meets regularly to discuss and implement ways to incorporate green practices within our everyday activities and operations from recycling and energy efficiency to contract services and hosting green events.

Some of our many efforts include a green roof over the Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit and bleachers made from recycled materials in the Dolphin Discovery amphitheater.

Locally grown, sustainable and organic foods can be found in the Harbor Market Kitchen, where disposable utensils, cups and containers are minimized and are made from compostable materials and visitors are asked to recycle and compost food waste.

Green-minded souvenirs are on sale at the Aquarium gift shop. High-efficiency hand-dryers are found in the restrooms and green cleaning products are used by all departments, including custodial and biological programs!

ECycled motherboards!

In 2011, we’re happy to report we:

Collected 20.24 tons of organic waste for compositing

Diverted 45.72 tons of trash, 347 pounds of technotrash and 448 pounds of batteries from reaching landfills by recycling

Recycled 1,350 gallons of waste cooking into biodiesel

Recycled 26.95 tons (75.8%) of construction debris

Saved 3.3 megawatts of energy

Saved 3.5 tons of solid waste by using recycled paper, vegetable-based inks and wind power to produce their Watermarks newsletter!

Click here to learn more about National Aquarium’s green business practices.

We aim to be a role model for resource conservation. By continuing to make sustainable decisions as part of National Aquarium culture, we want to inspire others to follow our lead and take action at home!